DARPA Advances Quantum Computing Initiatives with 11 Startups, Quantinuum Launches Helios
The U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has advanced 11 quantum computing startups to Stage B of its Quantum Benchmarking Initiative. Selected companies—including IBM, IonQ, and Quantinuum—will now focus on scaling their systems, managing risk, and demonstrating real-world viability by 2033. Each firm represents a distinct technological approach, from trapped ions to superconducting modular designs.
Quantinuum separately unveiled Helios, a high-precision quantum system, while LG announced a strategic partnership with French quantum firm Pasqal. These developments underscore accelerating institutional investment in quantum infrastructure, though the technology remains years away from commercial maturity.